Jemimah Rodrigues guided India into the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final with a match-winning unbeaten century against Australia. The thrilling semi-final, held at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy on Thursday, saw India chase down a massive 339-run target to secure a five-wicket win.
With this remarkable victory, the co-hosts have booked their place in the final, where they will face South Africa on Sunday at the same venue.
The chase started poorly when opener Shafali Verma fell early for 10, leaving India struggling at 13/1 in the second over. Rodrigues then took control, adding 46 runs with Smriti Mandhana, who contributed a quick 24 before being dismissed by Kim Garth.
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur joined Rodrigues at the crease, and together they built a crucial 167-run partnership that turned the game in India’s favor. Kaur played a captain’s knock of 89 from 88 balls, smashing 10 boundaries and two sixes before falling to Annabel Sutherland in the 36th over.
Rodrigues stayed calm throughout the innings, finding valuable support from Deepti Sharma (24), Richa Ghosh (26), and Amanjot Kaur (15*). Her unbeaten 127 off 134 balls, featuring 14 fours, sealed the victory with nine balls to spare. Garth and Sutherland took two wickets each for Australia.
Earlier, Australia posted a competitive total of 338 runs before being bowled out in 49.5 overs. Phoebe Litchfield led the scoring with a brilliant 119 off 93 balls, while Ellyse Perry added 77. Ashleigh Gardner’s quickfire 63 helped Australia reach a strong total.
For India, Shree Charani and Deepti Sharma picked two wickets each, while Kranti Gaud, Radha Yadav, and Harmanpreet Kaur claimed one apiece.
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This emphatic win sends India into the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 final, where they will battle South Africa for the coveted title. Fans are eagerly awaiting the thrilling finale on Sunday.
